SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/money-free-trial-assume-charges

A 'free trial' doesn't clearly say whether it turns into a paid plan. What does the FTC say to assume?

Assume it will keep charging you unless you cancel.

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  1. That it ends on its own for free
  2. That it will keep charging you ✔
  3. That you can't ever cancel

Why: Businesses offer free trials to get your card number. The FTC says if it's not clear whether you'll be billed unless you cancel, assume you will. Put the end date on your calendar.

Huh, didn't know that: The FTC says a business has to tell you how to cancel before it gets your card information.

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I wouldn't buy anything with velcro. It's a total rip-off.
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References

Answer: That it will keep charging you. Businesses offer free trials to get your card number. The FTC says if it's not clear whether you'll be billed unless you cancel, assume you will. Put the end date on your calendar.

  1. Getting In and Out of Free Trials, Auto-Renewals, and Negative Option Subscriptions (FTC) consumer.ftc.gov/articles/getting-and-out-free-trials-auto-renewals-and-negative-option-subscriptions
    If that's not clear to you, assume it will, since the business wants your credit card information.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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